Coast Guard units across the Northeast are accelerating preparations Monday ahead of forecasted tropical storm conditions expected to arrive in our area late Today into Wednesday.
Most New Englanders haul their vessels out at the end of the boating season, and with the approach of Jose, many of those who have hauled out will not put their boats back in the water, thus ending their seasons early. Otherwise may boaters remain active well into October, depending on location.
Cape Cod and the islands of Marthas Vineyard and Nantucket, which often getsstorms that don’t affect the Massachusetts “mainland” and vice versa, are expected to be especially hard hit, as you can see by the image above, which shows the arrival of tropical storm winds.
Forecasted marine and coastal effects, including 34-63 knot winds and 20-30 foot seas, could pose life threatening conditions for mariners.
In Maine waves such as these have been known to toss lobsters on the rocky shoreline.
Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod crews are flying storm tracks and using marine radios to warn offshore boaters of the approaching heavy weather and recommending they seek safe haven. U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod is flying today ahead of Jose to warn offshore boaters of the upcoming heavy weather and high seas.
Click below to hear HC-144A pilot Lt. Jono Parkhurst read what air crews are relaying to mariners via marine radio:
According to their news releases, Coast Guard Sectors and Stations across southern New England will maintain response-ready for near-shore search and rescue. The 270-foot Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane and 225-foot Coast Guard Cutter Oak crews are preparing to stage in protected waters for offshore response.
“We understand the sea is a livelihood for many people – but this is one of those few times when we urge everyone, commercial and recreational boaters, to stay off the water,” said Captain Richard Schultz, commander of Sector Southeastern New England.
Additionally, he said all boaters and those living along coastal communities are urged to secure their small craft and paddle craft, including canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards, due to the expected high winds, heavy seas, and storm surge. If drifting and unmanned, they could set off unnecessary searches and tie-up vital search and rescue resources.
